Dear Student Athletes, Community Members, Alumni, Faculty and Staff Members, Administration Team, and Coaches:

I hope this letter finds you all in good health and high spirits. Today, I write to express my deepest gratitude for your unwavering efforts, patience, feedback, and dedication throughout our journey as we prepare to embark on a new chapter for Bluefield State University's athletic department. It is with great excitement that I announce our decision to join the CIAA conference, and I want to emphasize the crucial role each and every one of you plays in our future success.

Reflecting on my time as the Head Basketball Coach and now transitioning into the role of Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics, I am humbled by the support and commitment I have witnessed from this remarkable community. Your resilience and determination have propelled us through challenges and has laid the foundation for the brighter days that lie ahead. I am truly honored to have been a part of this incredible journey alongside such incredible individuals.

As we embark on this new chapter, I want to assure you of my unwavering commitment and the promises I make to you all. First and foremost, I pledge to work tirelessly to ensure the success of our athletic department, the University, and our community as a whole. I will strive to foster an inclusive, supportive, and an empowering environment that enables our student athletes to thrive academically, athletically, and personally.

Furthermore, I acknowledge the struggles that Bluefield State has faced in the past, but I firmly believe that our brightest days are ahead of us. The move to the CIAA conference presents us with exciting opportunities for growth, enhanced competition, and increased visibility. Together, we will rise above any obstacles we encounter, united in our pursuit of excellence.

In this new phase, we will need your unwavering support, enthusiasm, and active participation. Our collective efforts will serve as the catalyst for our success. I have full confidence in the power of our community and I know that together we can achieve greatness.

Once again, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to each and every one of you. Your dedication, passion, and unwavering support have been instrumental in shaping our athletic program. Let us embrace the future with optimism and determination, ready to make our mark in the CIAA conference and beyond.

With immense gratitude and excitement,

Derrick Price
Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics Bluefield State University